Safeguarding Lead Trustee

Leeds GATE are searching for a new Trustee to act as Safeguarding Lead, to join our Executive Board, this is a rare opportunity to join a small but mighty charitable organisation and support the delivery of a new five year business plan for 2026 to 2031.

What will you be doing?

Mission

We are here for Gypsies and Travellers - improving quality of life across West Yorkshire.

Guided by our values, we support families and individuals at every stage of life. We are member-led, making decisions together as equals. We challenge racism and inequality.

Vision

Communities across West Yorkshire where Gypsies and Travellers are treated equally, have their culture respected, can live good lives and build a better future for their children.

Values

We are welcoming, respectful of privacy, honest, brave and creative. We belong to Gypsies and Travellers and help people to help themselves. We don't make promises we can't keep. We believe everyone is equal and should be safe.

Qualities

Do you have an interest or passion to support others, would you like to be a part of a friendly, committed team who value everyone's contribution.

Can you devote some time to attending meetings (minimum attendance at six weekly meetings - 2hrs), upholding our values and help us to make sure we are meeting our statutory governance and compliance regulations.

Diversity

We welcome applications from individuals with lived experience to ensure our board is representative of our community.

What are we looking for?

We are recruiting new Trustees who will help create, support and drive forward our strategic vision over the coming years and complement the skills and experience of our existing board. Previous Board/Trustee experience is not necessary, full training will be provided and we welcome applications from all ages and backgrounds. You will bring curiosity, positivity, energy and a collaborative spirit to the role.

We are particularly looking for Trustees who;

Understand the needs, issues and aspirations of Gypsy Traveller people

• Can commit to the purpose and values of Leeds GATE
• Will maintain the reputation of Leeds GATE and its good relations with members and other organisations
• Have effective inter-personal and communications skills and;
• Have the ability to work as a team with other Board members

The Executive Board is responsible for excellent governance and we value lived experience and community representation as a key part of that.

The board is not exclusively made of up Gypsy and Traveller people, however applications from Gypsy or Traveller people are particularly welcomed.

We are looking for a broad range of skills to enhance the Board. Most importantly you will align with and believe in our values.

These include expert knowledge in these areas:

• Governance Lead for safeguarding - An individual to lead our Safeguarding Subgroup and work alongside our two designated safeguarding leaders
• Lived experience as a Gypsy or Traveller from West Yorkshire

What difference will you make?

Leeds GATE is at an exciting period of its development, having recently developed delivery across West Yorkshire. As such, we are looking to appoint new Executive Board Members (Trustees) to support and make a positive impact within our organisation and communities.

Being an Executive Board Member of Leeds GATE offers a unique opportunity for personal and professional growth within a dynamic and innovative organisation, at the heart of the community and Gypsy and Traveller charity sector.